Rider: 80KG, advanced.
Style: Freeriding.
Weather: 14-18 Knots.
Build Quality: 8/10
Satisfaction: 8/10
Disclosure:

My Comments: Nobile Wood Skim Wave 154. 05/03/11.

Only used the board once yesterday so far, at Wedge Island WA. First impression is that for the price the build quality is excellent. The bamboo in the deck is visible and looks sweet IMHO. The deck had a "skate" style grip finish that I was sceptical about at first, but giving it a go without any wax (no straps either although it has inserts for straps) I was surprised on how much grip was available. The rails are ABS (ala snowboard/ski construction) in appearance and the base also. The graphics on the base are under the base finish so should last. The base itself has a nice twin concave machined in, and it runs about 2/3 of the board from the tail. The length is great (154cm) and gives a very lively feel to turns without being skittish and although the outline is asymetrical (surf shape) the board was easy to ride backwards and had me trying some 180o shove-its to tack/gibe the board. The board rides quite loose without fins (it has 4 standard twin holes drilled for a quad fin set up.) I have just added a couple of Wake 30mm fins to the tail for evaluation today, although the board is plenty of fun NAKED (no fins/straps/wax.) The board comes with 4 Nobile fins for you to option but no straps. Of note also was the boards light weight. It's not hard to POP the board out of the water but be aware it does catch the wind very easily. A hand on the board would be the order of the day if you're into aerials.

Only 8/10 as the board didn't come with the full options package (no straps) but even at a 8/10 and the low price it's a solid buy.

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There is some rocker on the nose and I recon it holds up well in the foam. The board is pretty thin though so I recon you wont be taking any large drops. The tail is flat with the twin concave running all the way from the tail up the board.

Had it out again today, up at Pinneroo Point, WA. Perfect conditions for it wind wise. Constant 14 knots when I went out and rose to a constant 18/20 knots over a 2 hour period. Rides well in reverse too, with a little change of stance.

Kite: Liquid Force Havoc 8 meter.

Lots of fun learning to ride strapless, and trying some skate tricks too. Great way to spend a couple of hours.

Keen to have a ride on this. Sounds like loads of fun.

I had a quick go on it and was impressed on how well it tracked in the chop.
It held a rail quite nice, and didnt really slide out unless you wanted it to.

The deck was grippy and I dont think you would need to wax it.

It was fun to ride and would make a great addition if your looking for a second board to mix it up.